NYPD Chief Chaplain Assaulted In Attempted Robbery On UWS: Report

UPPER WEST SIDE, NY — The New York Police Department's chief chaplain, Rabbi Alvin Kass, was assaulted in an attempted robbery early Tuesday morning on the Upper West Side, according to multiple sources, including NBC New York and ABC New York.

Kass, 84, who is the longest-serving member of the NYPD, was approached around 5:45 a.m. at Riverside Drive and West 108th Street, by a man who said he needed money and food, according to NBC New York.

The man dug his hand into the rabbi's pockets in an attempt to take his wallet, but instead caused it to fall to the ground, which revealed Kass's NYPD shield, police told NBC New York. Upon seeing the NYPD badge, the robber fled the scene.

The rabbi was not injured, according to ABC New York.

Police did not confirm Kass's name to Patch, but did confirm that an 84-year-old man was assaulted at the same Upper West Side location at the same time this morning.

Police told NBC New York that Rafael Diaz, a 39-year-old homeless man, was arrested in connection to the incident.

Kass is the former head of the New York Board of Rabbis, and he has served seven mayors and 16 police commissioners during his more than 50 years in the NYPD.

He is the only chaplain in the New York Police Department's history to receive three stars.

This is a developing story, please check back in for updates.